What is the first step to improve productivity in operations?

The first step to improve productivity in operations involves the design of the product and the process used to produce it. Focusing on the design elements includes not just the physical characteristics of the product but also how the production process is structured, which can significantly impact efficiency and effectiveness. A well-thought-out design helps streamline operations, reduce waste, and optimize resources, which are all critical for enhancing productivity.

By ensuring that both product and process are sufficiently aligned and engineered, organizations can create a foundation that maximizes output while minimizing costs and resource usage. This step is crucial because if the product or the process is flawed, any goals or measurements set later may not yield the intended productivity improvements.

In summary, starting with the design phase ensures that all subsequent efforts in productivity enhancement are built on a strong, efficient foundation.